1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo
When you think of Florence, the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply the Duomo, is probably the first thing that pops into your mind. It’s the symbol of Florence, and for good reason!
This magnificent cathedral is the crown jewel of the city, with its famous Dome that once held the title of the tallest building in the world until 1881. The exterior is a masterpiece of art, with a facade covered in intricate white marble, and breathtaking red, pink, and green designs.
We spent ages just strolling around, soaking in the beauty from every angle. Trust us, it’s the kind of place where you can’t help but pause and just marvel at what human hands can create.
Insider Tip: Right next to the Duomo, there’s a little spot called Mister Pizza. The line might be long, but that’s how you know it’s the real deal. Grab a table and order pizza or do what the locals do—find a comfy spot on the floor right by the Duomo. Eating pizza with that view? It’s a Florence experience you won’t forget!
2. Giotto’s Campanile
Giotto’s Campanile, or the bell tower, might look like it’s seamlessly attached to the Cathedral, but it’s actually its own standalone marvel. Built in the same Gothic style as the Cathedral, this structure is a true architectural masterpiece and a must-see when you’re exploring Piazza Duomo.
For those who are up for a bit of a challenge, you can climb to the top of the Campanile. It’s 414 steps—I know! It’s a lot! —but the views from the top are worth every bit of the effort.
Tip: Tickets for the Campanile can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s smart to purchase them in advance.
3. Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria
While the Duomo is the heart of Florence’s religious life, the Palazzo Vecchio stands as the city’s most significant administrative landmark. This imposing palace, with its fortress-like exterior, has played a central role in Florence’s history. Once the residence of the powerful Medici family, who shaped the city’s culture and politics, Palazzo Vecchio continues to dominate the city’s skyline with its massive clock tower and the statues of David and Hercules standing guard.
Next to the palace, the Fountain of Neptune adds an extra touch of grandeur to Piazza della Signoria, making it a perfect spot to sit and soak in the lively Italian vibe. Inside Palazzo Vecchio, a world of grandiose rooms and hidden secrets awaits, where Renaissance art meets tales of political power. Every corner of this historic building tells a story, from the intricate frescoes to the secret passages, giving you a true glimpse into the lives of those who helped shape Florence into the city we know and love today.
Tip: Just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza della Signoria is All’Antico Vinaio, one of the few authentic Florentine fast food spots in the city. This place is always buzzing, with a line that often stretches down the street, so it’s a good idea to arrive early—breakfast time is your best bet to beat the crowds. The paninis here are simply amazing, packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor.
You can choose from their mouthwatering creations or customize your own. And at just around €10, the price is a steal considering the hefty portions you get. Our favourites were La Paradisa (Mortadela, pistachio, straccatella) and Favolosa (Sbriciolona cold cut with fennel, pecorino cream, artichoke and spicy eggplant cream)
4. Ponte Vecchio
The famous old bridge in Florence, Ponte Vecchio, is a true icon of the city. Spanning the Arno River, this unique bridge is unlike any other, with shops and even apartments built right on top of it. As you stroll across, you’ll find jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir shops lining the way, offering everything from fine gold to quirky keepsakes.
What makes Ponte Vecchio even more fascinating is that it’s been a bustling marketplace since it was first built in the 14th century. Originally, the shops were home to butchers and tanners, but the Medici family, who lived nearby, couldn’t stand the smell. So, they decreed that only goldsmiths and jewelers could set up shop on the bridge—a tradition that continues to this day.
And here’s a fun little fact: if you look up while crossing the bridge, you’ll notice a covered passageway above. This is the Vasari Corridor, a secret walkway built for the Medici so they could move between their palace and offices without mingling with the common folk down below.
After crossing the bridge to the south side, make sure to treat yourself to some authentic Italian gelato at La Strega Nocciola Gelateria Artigianale – Firenze Ponte Vecchio. Here’s a tip for finding the best gelato: look for the ones stored in tin cans. Authentic gelato is more creamy and dense, unlike regular ice cream, which is often filled with air. This spot serves some of the creamiest, most delicious gelato in the city—perfect for savoring while you continue your walk through Florence.
5. Piazzale Michelangelo
High on a hill on the south bank of the River Arno, the Piazzale Michelangelo offers the most stunning panoramic view of Florence. It’s the kind of view that takes your breath away, with the city’s domes, towers, and bridges laid out like a postcard below. In the center of the square, you’ll find a striking bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David, keeping watch over the city.
This spot is no secret, though — come evening, the square fills up with both tourists and locals, all eager to watch the sun set over Florence. The sky turns shades of pink and gold, casting a magical glow over the city.
Every evening during our visit, we were at Piazzale Michelangelo to soak in the views. We loved coming back at night as well. The city lights twinkle below, and Florence takes on a whole new kind of beauty under the stars.
6. The Basilica of Santa Croce
While the Duomo is undeniably majestic, the Basilica of Santa Croce has a different kind of appeal—one that’s more laid-back and welcoming. It sits right at the heart of its square, perfectly framing the space and giving it a cozy, inviting vibe.
We loved grabbing a seat in front of the Basilica and just soaking in the atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot to relax and watch life in Florence unfold around you. Whether you’re people-watching or just enjoying the peaceful setting, Santa Croce is the perfect place to take a break from the crowds and enjoy the everyday beauty of the city.
7. Explore Tuscany’s Wine Country
While we don’t drink alcohol and didn’t go on a wine tour ourselves, it’s one of those quintessential experiences you just can’t miss if you’re in Tuscany or Florence. Tuscany is world-famous for its wine, and there’s no better way to experience it than by touring the beautiful vineyards and sampling the local offerings.
Here are some of the top rated tours you can book for wine experiences:
8. Uffizi Gallery
Even if you’re not a huge art lover, the Uffizi Gallery is one of those places that really shouldn’t be missed. It’s home to some of the most important works of the Renaissance, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio.
We didn’t have time to visit during our trip (Florence has so much to see!), but it’s definitely high on our list for next time.
If you want to go, we recommend booking tickets in advance — the lines can be seriously long, especially in high season.
9. David statue at the Galleria dell’Accademia
You’ve probably seen photos of Michelangelo’s David a thousand times — but seeing it in real life is on a whole other level.
This statue is huge and way more detailed than any photo can show. It’s tucked away inside the Galleria dell’Accademia, which is a short walk from the Duomo.
The replica of David statue is right next to Galleria dell’Accademia, on Palazzo Vecchio.
10. Boboli gardens
Need a little break from museums and churches?
The Boboli Gardens are a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy a greener side of Florence.
These historic gardens stretch out behind the Pitti Palace and are filled with sculptures, fountains, and beautiful shady spots to relax.
We didn’t manage to visit during our stay, but if you have a sunny day, spending a few hours here sounds like the perfect way to recharge between sightseeing stops.
If you have time, here are Day Trips from Florence so you can explore even more!
How to Get Around in Florence
By foot! We highly recommend walking around Florence. The city is full of beautiful hidden streets that you’ll absolutely fall in love with. As you explore, you’ll stumble upon charming little cafés and restaurants that are well worth a visit.
If you need to use public transportation, Florence has a straightforward system called ATAF. For just €1.50, you can hop on a bus or tram and use it for 90 minutes, which is super convenient for getting around the city.
Best Time to Visit Florence
Florence is a stunner no matter the season, so whenever you can make the trip, it’s bound to be an unforgettable experience. However, if you’re looking to avoid the biggest crowds, timing your visit can make all the difference.
Summer in Florence, especially from June to August, is peak tourist season. The city can get pretty crowded, and the temperatures can soar, making it a bit challenging to explore comfortably. But don’t let that scare you off—Florence in the summer is vibrant and full of life, with longer days to enjoy the sights.
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons—April to May or September to October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner, giving you more space to enjoy the city’s beauty at your own pace. Plus, spring and early autumn bring out the best in Florence’s gardens and outdoor spaces.
If you’re after a quieter, more intimate visit, winter (November to February) is your best bet. While it can be chilly, the city takes on a magical atmosphere with festive decorations and fewer tourists. It’s the perfect time to cozy up in a café with a cappuccino or explore museums and galleries without the usual hustle and bustle.
No matter when you visit, Florence is always worth the trip. The key is to pick the time that best matches your travel style and enjoy the city in all its timeless charm.
Where to Stay in Florence
We opted to stay a bit further from the city center, and we didn’t regret it one bit. The prices were much lower, and it was only a 15-minute walk to the heart of Florence. We stayed at Hotel Aida, which was perfect for us since we were traveling by car. The hotel offers secure, affordable parking—a big plus if you’re driving. The rooms were charming, with high ceilings, and they provided a nice breakfast to kickstart our days.
However, if you want to be right in the middle of the action, we’d recommend B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo. Imagine waking up just steps away from the majestic Duomo di Firenze, with a view that’s absolutely priceless. Staying here puts you in the heart of Florence, surrounded by history, culture, and all the best sights the city has to offer. Whether you choose to stay a little outside the center or right in it, Florence has something for every traveler.
No matter how you choose to spend your time, Florence is one of those places that leaves a mark on your heart. Every street, every piazza, every little café tells a story — and honestly, you could spend weeks here and still find something new every day. Want to explore mo
Enjoy every second of your trip!
Until next time, be mesmerized! 🧡